At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop innovative software solutions in AI and machine learning for national security.
- Company: Join Leidos, a leader in technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and generous leave.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact from Day 1 in a creative team.
- Qualifications: Proficient in Python and Java; Agile experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 47600 - 61000 £ per year.
Software Engineer Programme Name: Maritime Internal Research & Development
Location: Farnborough, with flexibility to work from home dependent on business demands
Salary: £47,600 - £61,000
Are you ready for your next career challenge? We are seeking a Software Engineer (Python and Java) to play a key role in advancing Maritime Internal Research and Development (IRAD) within our National Security & Defence (NS&D) Division. You will help shape next‑generation capabilities in AI, autonomy, and machine learning, taking innovative concepts from research through to solutions ready for integration with operational platforms.
Working in a fast‑paced and collaborative environment, you will contribute to problem analysis, solution design, and the delivery of high‑quality software across a diverse range of applications. Based at our Farnborough office, with flexibility for primarily remote working, you will join a high‑performing, multidisciplinary team operating across the UK. This is an opportunity to make a tangible impact, working within a creative team at the forefront of internal innovation and strategic business growth.
We are looking for engineers with a strong foundation in software development and a passion for delivering robust, assured solutions. Due to the nature of the work, candidates must hold, or be eligible to obtain, UK SC clearance and be a sole UK national. The role offers exposure across multiple IRAD workstreams and the full software development lifecycle, providing the opportunity to grow your skills while contributing to mission‑critical outcomes.
The role is a full-time, permanent position that will make an impact from Day 1.
Key Activities:- Develop Software Requirements and Software solutions/recommendations
- Contribute to architecture and design baselines
- Fast-paced experimentation and solution development to meet mission focused use cases
- Software development of solutions to quality/safety/security software standards
- Integration of bespoke and COTS software products
- Configuration of software products and toolchains
- Software modelling and simulation
- Ability to demo capabilities and rapidly iterate based on feedback
- Change and release management
- Curious and inquisitive issue investigation and a flexible and adaptable approach to resolution
- Technical risk and opportunity management
- Liaison with UK-wide and global colleagues, suppliers and end user representatives
- Close working with other disciplines (i.e. Systems Engineering and Test Teams)
- Proficiency in Python and Java; experience with C++ and JavaScript is desirable
- Experience working in Agile development environments
- Familiarity with Secure DevOps and CI/CD pipelines, including tools such as Jira, Bitbucket, JFrog, Ansible, Grafana, Splunk, Confluence, and Kubernetes
- Experience designing and implementing service‑oriented and microservices architectures
- Containerisation experience, preferably using Docker
- Use of automated testing frameworks and tools
- Experience developing solutions on AWS
- Delivery of software in line with quality, safety, and security standards, including Secure by Design principles
- Understanding of integrating sensor inputs, effects of latency, decision and behaviour trees, failure modes, autonomy algorithms, performance tuning and assessing AI accuracy
- Experience with LLMs, AI agents, and generative AI techniques
- Exposure to AI‑assisted and agentic software engineering tools, frameworks, and patterns (e.g. MCP, Claude Code)
- Integration and configuration of COTS products
- Current UK SC Clearance, or the ability to gain UK SC Clearance.
- Sole UK National.
At Leidos we are PASSIONATE about customer success, UNITED as a team and INSPIRED to make a difference. We offer meaningful and engaging careers, a collaborative culture, and support for your career goals, all while nurturing a healthy work-life balance. We provide an employment package that attracts, develops and retains only the best in talent.
Our reward scheme includes:- Contributory Pension Scheme
- Private Medical Insurance
- 33 days Annual Leave (including public and privilege holidays)
- Access to Flexible benefits (including life assurance, health schemes, gym memberships, annual buy and sell holidays and a cycle to work scheme)
- Flexi-Time Working
We welcome applications from every part of the community and are committed to a truly diverse and inclusive culture. We foster a sense of belonging, welcoming all perspectives and contributions, and providing equal access to opportunities and resources for everyone.
Software Engineer (Python and Java) in Ham employer: Leidos
At Leidos, we are committed to fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. Located in Farnborough, with the flexibility of remote working, we offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits including a contributory pension scheme and private medical insurance, and ample opportunities for professional growth through technical academies and career development plans. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the fields of AI, autonomy, and machine learning while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Software Engineer (Python and Java) in Ham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Leidos or in the industry on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role. Personal connections can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Brush up on your Python and Java skills, and be ready to discuss your experience with Agile development and CI/CD pipelines. Practising common interview questions can help you feel more confident.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your projects! If you've worked on any relevant software development projects, make sure to highlight them during your interview. Having tangible examples of your work can really impress the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the Leidos team.
We think you need these skills to ace Software Engineer (Python and Java) in Ham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Software Engineer role. Highlight your experience with Python and Java, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or skills that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit for the team at Leidos. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. We love candidates who can demonstrate their analytical thinking and creativity in problem-solving, especially in fast-paced environments.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Leidos.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leidos
✨Know Your Tech Stack
Make sure you’re well-versed in Python and Java, as these are key for the role. Brush up on your knowledge of C++ and JavaScript too, as they might come up during technical discussions.
✨Familiarise with Agile Practices
Since the company works in Agile environments, be prepared to discuss your experience with Agile methodologies. Think of examples where you've successfully contributed to a team project using Agile principles.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to demonstrate your approach to problem analysis and solution design. Prepare a couple of scenarios where you tackled complex issues, especially in software development or integration.
✨Understand the Company’s Mission
Research the company’s focus on AI, autonomy, and machine learning. Be prepared to discuss how your skills can contribute to their mission and how you can help shape next-generation capabilities.
